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F4F of "Hammerin' Hank" Elrod Low Top Canvas Shoes
Sale price
$47.99 USD
Regular price $59.99 USD
This design is based on the F4F-3 Wildcat “211-F-11” of as flown by Captain Henry “Hammerin’ Hank” Elrod. Captain Elrod was a US Marine Corps aviator and the first aviator to receive the Medal of Honor during World War II, for his heroism in the defense of Wake Island. On December 12, he single-handedly attacked a flight of 22 enemy planes and shot down two. He executed several low-altitude bombing and strafing runs on enemy ships; during one of these attacks, he became the first man to sink a warship, the Japanese destroyer Kisaragi, with small-caliber bombs delivered from a fighter aircraft. His Medal of Honor citation reads:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while attached to Marine Fighting Squadron 211, during action against enemy Japanese land, surface and aerial units at Wake Island, from 8 to 23 December 1941. Engaging vastly superior forces of enemy bombers and warships on 9 and 12 December, Captain Elrod shot down two of a flight of twenty-two hostile planes and, executing repeated bombing and strafing runs at extremely low altitude and close range, succeeded in inflicting deadly damage upon a large Japanese vessel, thereby sinking the first major warship to be destroyed by small caliber bombs delivered from a fighter-type aircraft. When his plane was disabled by hostile fire and no other ships were operative, Captain Elrod assumed command of one flank of the line set up in defiance of the enemy landing and conducting a brilliant defense, enabled his men to hold their positions and repulse determined Japanese attacks, repeatedly proceeding through intense hostile fusillades to provide covering fire for unarmed ammunition carriers. Capturing an automatic weapon during one enemy rush in force, he gave his own firearm to one of his men and fought on vigorously against the Japanese. Responsible in a large measure of the strength of his sector's gallant resistance, on 23 December, Captain Elrod led his men with bold aggressiveness until he fell, mortally wounded. His superb skill as a pilot, daring leadership and unswerving devotion to duty distinguished him among the defenders of Wake Island, and his valiant conduct reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
Product Details
Product Details | Canvas Shoes
Step into history with our warbird themed canvas shoes! Each pair of shoes are made to order, featuring designs inspired by history’s most remarkable military aircraft and aviators. So, whether you are a warbird buff, air show fanatic or simply a lover of aviation, you can be certain our designs will bring a touch of style and history to your everyday wardrobe.
✈ Made to order.
✈ Classic lace-up closure to achieve the perfect fit.
✈ Brushed metal eyelets for that timeless style.
✈ Soft inner lining and insole for absolute comfort.
✈ Iconic rounded rubber toe cap.
Production & Shipping
Manufacturing | Canvas Shoes
Production & Shipping times can be found here.
Made to Order
This product is made to order with production beginning once your order has been received. We are, therefore, not able to cancel or amend an order once it has been placed. This includes changes to the shipping address, size, design, or any other specifications. Please review your order details carefully before finalising your purchase.
By producing items on demand rather than in large quantities, we actively contribute to minimising overproduction and waste. We genuinely appreciate your mindful purchasing choices, which support this more sustainable approach. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Colour and Design Variations
Minor variations in colour and design placement may occur during production. As a result, some design elements may differ slightly in colour or position from it appears onscreen. For more details please see our FAQ page.
Fulfilment and Product Origin
This product is manufactured in and shipped from China.
Lead times: 95% of all shoe orders arrive within 14 business days of the order date.
Care Instructions
Care Instructions | Canvas Shoes
Before You Begin
Insert shoe trees or stuff the shoes with newspaper to help them maintain their shape while cleaning.
Hand wash only.
Do not clean your shoes in a washing machine.
What You’ll Need
* Liquid laundry detergent
* Warm water
* Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
* Sponge or soft cloth
* Clean, damp cloth
* Shoe trees or newspaper
1. Remove Laces and Brush Away Dirt
Remove the laces and brush away any loose dirt using a dry toothbrush or soft-bristled brush. You can also remove the insoles if you are concerned about them getting wet.
2. Pre-Treat Stains
Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent directly to any stains and leave it for at least 15 minutes before cleaning.
3. Wash the Shoes
Mix a small amount of liquid laundry detergent with warm water. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the solution and gently clean the shoes by hand.
NB: Avoid scrubbing the foxing tape, which is the decorative white or black trim around the sole, as excessive rubbing may damage or remove the finish. If the foxing is dirty, gently wipe the area with a damp cloth.
4. Rinse and Dry
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any detergent and soapy residue. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them.
5. Clean the Laces
Soak the laces in the detergent solution, rinse thoroughly, and allow them to dry completely before re-lacing the shoes.
Refunds & Returns
Our Returns & Refund Policy and Apparel Size Guarantees and can be found here.